Kyiv: In a bold escalation, Russian forces unleashed a barrage of 45 drones over Ukraine in a relentless five-and-a-half-hour assault on Sunday, intensifying the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy swiftly reacted by reorganizing key positions in his war cabinet, aiming to fortify the nation’s defense amidst the prolonged war.
Ukrainian air force reports indicate that 40 of the Iranian-made Shahed drones were successfully downed in nine different regions, including the outskirts of Kyiv. The attack targeted vital agricultural facilities and coastal infrastructure, resulting in injuries and widespread damage. In the Mykolaiv region, one person was injured, and residential buildings suffered damages due to a strike that ignited a fire. Serhiy Lysak, the head of the Dnipropetrovsk region’s military administration, revealed that falling debris from a downed drone sparked another blaze, causing additional injuries.
The assault, strategically aimed at disrupting critical infrastructure, underscores the evolving tactics employed by Russian forces in the conflict. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy’s ongoing adjustments in military leadership signal a commitment to sustain momentum against the invading Russian forces.
In a series of appointments, Lt Gen Alexander Pavlyuk assumes command of Ukraine’s ground forces, succeeding Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, who now serves as Ukraine’s military chief. Further appointments include Yurii Sodol as commander of Ukraine’s combined forces, Brig. Gen. Ihor Skibiuk as commander of Ukraine’s air assault forces, and Maj. Gen. Ihor Plahuta as commander of Ukraine’s territorial defense forces.
Incoming commander-in-chief Syrskyi emphasizes priorities such as enhancing troop rotation at the front lines and leveraging new technological capabilities, reflecting the imperative of adaptability in confronting evolving threats.
In a Telegram statement, President Zelenskyy affirmed the intention to “reboot” Ukraine’s armed forces with seasoned combat commanders at the helm. The ongoing reshuffle signifies a strategic effort to reinforce Ukraine’s military leadership and confront emerging challenges in the conflict against Russian forces.
